Thirsk & Malton Conservatives have selected Easingwold estate agent Kevin Hollingrake as their candidate in next year's general election.

50 year old Kevin Hollingrake is the Managing Director of Hunter's Estate Agency in York. He was selected by members of the local party in a meeting at York Racecourse last night.

The four shortlisted candidates were interviewed by moderator Matthew Parris and took questions from party members before three rounds of voting.

The vote took place after sitting Conservative MP Anne McIntosh was deselected by party members in January.

Speaking on Monday, before the vote Anne McIntosh said:

"Many people have approached me regarding the Conservative Candidate Selection for Thirsk and Malton."

"As I have said before, I do not comment on internal proceedings of the Conservative Party, to which I remain loyal and supportive. Nor will I be making any further comment at this time other than to say that I intend to carry on doing the work I was elected to do in May 2010 to the best of my ability."

“I shall continue to represent the people of Thirsk, Malton and Filey with the utmost energy and enthusiasm."

“Being the only woman Conservative MP for the Yorkshire and Humber Region, I am extremely proud to do so.”